Caffeine is considered the world's most popular drug. It is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, sodas and energy drinks. This abundant drug is generally known for stimulating the central nervous system, giving people that extra boost to help wake up in the morning. However, caffeine also affects other systems of the body, including the GI tract, in beneficial or detrimental ways. Depending on your personal situation, caffeine can prevent, relieve, cause or worsen constipation.
Constipation
When you follow an unhealthy diet, one of the first consequences that is usually noted is a change in bowel regularity. In fact, constipation affects people of all ages and has probably affected everyone at one time or another. According to the National Digestive Diseases
Information Clearinghouse, constipation is defined as having three or fewer bowel movements per week, or having a stool that is dry, difficult or painful to pass. According to the IBS Treatment Center, optimal GI function requires having a bowel movement at least once per day. Not being regular can cause bloating, lack of energy, headaches, abdominal pain and a general decrease in quality of life.
Causes of Constipation
Although chronic constipation may be due to a more serious condition that requires medical attention, acute constipation can be remedied by a simple change in diet or lifestyle. Increasing daily fiber intake, drinking more liquids and exercising can drastically increase bowel regularity. You should not avoid the urge to eliminate, overuse laxatives or consume excessive caffeine.
Caffeine and Diuretics
As the stool passes through the colon, a large amount of water is absorbed. If you're not drinking sufficient fluids, the stool may become too hard or dry in the colon, leading to constipation. Caffeine is a diuretic that causes the body to excrete more water through urine, causing a state of dehydration if additional fluids are not ingested. If you drink large amounts of caffeinated beverages, it is a good idea to drink additional fluids to counteract the possible negative effects of caffeine in the colon.
Caffeine's Beneficial Effects
It is also a good rule of thumb to always keep things in moderation. If moderate amounts of caffeine are ingested with plenty of extra fluids to combat dehydration, you may not experience constipation -- in fact, caffeine may even help prevent constipation. Having your cup of coffee can awaken nerve fibers in the colon, causing it to contract and begin peristaltic action, thereby providing more-active bowel movements.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Constipation; July 2007
- MayoClinic.com; Constipation: Prevention; January 2011
- IBS Treatment Center; Beyond Fiber: Solving Constipation; July 2006
- Abdopain.com: Causes of Constipation
- "Women's Health"; Gut Check: Solve Your Stomach Problems; November 2006
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